Research Scientist I/II, Purification Sciences

JOB SUMMARY

We are seeking an experienced and highly motivated Research Scientist, Purification & Analytical Sciences to develop and advance small-molecule purification and high-throughput analytical capabilities within our drug discovery team. This scientist will provide scientific and technical expertise in preparative SFC and LC purification, as well as high-throughput compound QC, supporting medicinal chemistry and high-throughput experimentation (HTE) platform.

A key focus of this role will be SFC-based purification, including method development, optimization, and application to diverse and challenging chemical matter. The ideal candidate will combine strong fundamentals in chromatographic separation science with hands-on expertise in analytical QC, instrument troubleshooting, automation, and high-throughput workflows.

This scientist will work closely with HTE, medicinal chemistry and other discovery teams to rapidly deliver purified, well-characterized compounds and high-quality analytical data, supporting an AI-driven design–make–test–learn drug discovery cycle. This position will be based out of our San Diego Headquarters.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Develop and execute small-molecule purification strategies using preparative SFC and LC, with particular emphasis on SFC method development and optimization.

• Independently solve challenging separations through optimization of stationary/mobile phases, selectivity, gradients, sample loading, scale-up, and fraction collection.

• Develop and support high-throughput compound QC workflows using LC/MS and related analytical techniques to assess compound identity, purity, and sample quality.

• Collaborate with medicinal chemistry and HTE teams to establish fit-for-purpose purification and QC strategies and rapidly deliver high-quality compounds.

• Serve as a technical resource for SFC/LC purification, analytical QC, and instrument troubleshooting, including root-cause analysis of chromatography, fluidics, hardware, and software issues.

• Provide hands-on support for SFC, LC, and LC/MS platforms, including maintenance, system optimization, and vendor coordination.

• Develop and improve automated and high-throughput purification and QC workflows, integrating sample handling, purification, fraction processing, analytical characterization, and data management.

• Evaluate and implement new chromatography, analytical, automation, and informatics technologies to expand throughput, capacity, and operational efficiency.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Ph.D. in Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chemical Engineering, or a related discipline with 0-5 years of relevant experience; or a MS with 7+ years / BS with 9+ years of relevant experience.

• Strong hands-on expertise in small-molecule chromatographic purification and method development, preferably in a pharmaceutical, biotechnology, CRO, or drug discovery environment.

• Demonstrated expertise in preparative SFC, including method development, optimization, and troubleshooting; preparative LC experience is strongly preferred.

• Strong understanding of chromatographic separation science and demonstrated ability to independently solve complex purification problems.

• Strong instrument troubleshooting skills, including experience diagnosing chromatography, fluidics, hardware, software, and workflow issues.

• Strong understanding of medicinal chemistry and small-molecule drug discovery, with the ability to translate project needs into effective purification and analytical strategies.

• Excellent scientific problem-solving, communication, and collaboration skills.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience with high-throughput LC/MS analysis and compound QC, including purity and identity assessment, is strongly preferred.

• Experience with automation, high-throughput workflows, and informatics/data-management systems is highly desirable.

• Experience with Agilent, Shimadzu, or comparable analytical and purification platforms is a plus.

ABOUT IAMBIC THERAPEUTICS
Iambic Therapeutics (Nasdaq: IAM) is a technology and clinical-stage life sciences company headquartered in San Diego. By utilizing molecular superintelligence — integrating proprietary AI with automated, scalable chemistry and biology experimentation — our platform is designed to address the totality of drug discovery and development. At Iambic, we are building an engine that is designed to power the future of medicine. Learn more at iambic.ai.

MISSION & VALUES
Our mission is to make better technology for better medicines. Three values guide how we work:

• Bold. We are courageous, take thoughtful risks, and approach challenges with tenacity.

• Innovative. We are creative and find new solutions that deliver impact.

• Collaborative. We respect one another and partner with integrity.

We value the range of perspectives our people bring, and we work to build an environment where every team member can contribute and grow.

PAY AND BENEFITS
The pay range for this role is listed above. Actual pay depends on factors including experience, skills, and location. Eligible employees in the U.S. receive company-paid medical coverage, flexible spending accounts, voluntary life insurance, 401(k) matching and flexible time off. We are in a brand-new state-of-the art facility in beautiful San Diego with a community gym, dining, and easy access to great places to live and play.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY
Iambic is an equal opportunity employer. We consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, veteran or military status, or any other characteristic protected by law.